Development Academy Referees Moving Up the Ladder

NewsJan 19, 2012

In early January, 50 U.S. Soccer Development Academy referees were invited to a four-day preseason camp in Florida. From meetings, to training, to a visit from U.S. MNT head coach Jurgen Klinsmann, each member of the group is pursuing an opportunity to ultimately officiate in some big games during the developmental process.

Much of January has been fixated on player development, whether it is the athletes making a professional move to Major League Soccer or the U.S. Under-23 Menâ€™s National Team progressing with the hopes of competing in the 2012 London Olympics.

But U.S. Soccer development goes beyond the rosters on the pitch. It also includes the officials who oversee matches throughout the country, from the youth to professional ranks.